Teaching data handling to 11-12 year old students using a thematic approach

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate how the use of a thematic approach will help students when learning data handling. A resource pack on a particular theme was developed by this researcher and was piloted with a small number of students who had just finished the Form 1 scholastic year, with all the lessons and activities in the resource pack being carried out by this researcher. Besides journal entries for all the sessions, the ultimate aim of the questionnaire and the interviews was to address issues such as the students' attitudes towards the use of the thematic approach in the teaching of mathematics. Thematic approach in mathematics enhances the students' understanding of mathematics and to develop holistically. Teaching thematically showed that students maintained a positive attitude towards the learning of mathematics.